How to choose the best Harley Davidson mid controls for comfort

 When it comes to customizing your Harley Davidson for optimal comfort, few components make as significant an impact as your foot controls. Among these, Harley Davidson mid controls are a popular choice for riders seeking a more natural riding position, better control, and a sportier feel. But with various options available, how do you choose the best mid controls that balance comfort, function, and style?

In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about selecting the ideal Harley Davidson mid controls for your riding style, body type, and overall comfort.

What Are Harley Davidson Mid Controls?

Mid controls place your feet directly below your hips — a position that offers a balanced and centered riding posture. Unlike forward controls (which stretch your legs forward) or rearsets (which pull your legs backward), mid controls provide a more neutral, upright seating position, especially popular among riders who prioritize control, cornering, and all-day comfort.

They are often found on sportier Harley models like the Sportster, but can also be installed on Softails, Dynas, and touring bikes with the right kits.

Why Comfort Matters When Choosing Mid Controls

Whether you're cruising around town or taking long road trips, comfort plays a huge role in how enjoyable and sustainable your ride is. Poorly positioned foot controls can lead to:

  • Knee or hip discomfort

  • Back strain

  • Fatigue on long rides

  • Reduced control over your bike

Choosing the right Harley Davidson mid controls ensures you maintain a posture that supports your body ergonomically while also giving you better leverage and feel on the road.

Key Factors to Consider

1. Your Height and Leg Length

Rider height and inseam are two of the biggest factors when choosing mid controls. Taller riders may find stock mid controls feel cramped, while shorter riders might feel more in control with mids compared to forward controls.

Some aftermarket brands offer adjustable mid controls to accommodate different leg lengths — a great feature for fine-tuning your comfort level.

Tip: Sit on your bike and place your feet directly beneath your hips. If your knees are too bent or too stretched, you may need either a different mid control kit or a custom seat to compensate.

2. Riding Style

Your riding style should influence the placement of your mid controls.

  • Aggressive riding or city commuting: Mid controls allow better maneuverability and control, especially during quick starts, stops, and tight turns.

  • Touring or highway cruising: Some long-distance riders still prefer mid controls due to their neutral position, but may supplement with highway pegs for added comfort.

If you ride both aggressively and do long-distance trips, a dual control setup (mid controls + highway pegs) might be your best bet.

3. Bike Compatibility

Not all Harley Davidson mid controls are universal. Compatibility depends on the year, model, and frame type of your Harley. For example:

  • Sportsters typically come with mid controls but may require relocation kits for taller riders.

  • Dyna and Softail riders often switch from forward to mid controls for more control in urban or twisty terrain.

  • Touring models may need extensive modifications to add mid controls.

Always check with your manufacturer or consult with a pro before purchasing.

4. Aftermarket vs OEM

Harley-Davidson offers OEM mid controls for many of its bikes, but several aftermarket brands also produce high-quality kits with added features like:

  • Adjustable footpeg position

  • Improved leverage and pivot angles

  • Custom finishes to match your bike’s aesthetic

Popular aftermarket brands include Hawg Halters Inc., Biltwell, Performance Machine, and Roland Sands Design — all offering mid control kits with comfort and customization in mind.

5. Installation Complexity

Some mid control kits require simple bolt-on installation, while others may demand more complex work like relocating brake and shift linkages or modifying the frame.

If you're not mechanically inclined, consider having a certified Harley technician handle the install to ensure everything functions correctly and safely.

Tips for Maximizing Comfort with Mid Controls

  1. Pair with an ergonomic seat – Seats with more padding and better lumbar support can make a big difference when combined with mid controls.

  2. Use vibration-dampening footpegs – These reduce fatigue and numbness on long rides.

  3. Adjust handlebars accordingly – With mid controls moving your posture upright, your handlebars may need to be adjusted to avoid wrist and shoulder strain.

  4. Test ride before committing – If possible, test a Harley with mid controls to see how it feels before making the switch.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Harley Davidson mid controls is all about finding the perfect balance between comfort, control, and customization. From your body type and riding style to the specifics of your Harley model, several factors come into play.

Take your time to research options, read reviews, and consider brands known for quality and rider-focused design. Whether you’re upgrading for better control in the city or long-haul comfort on the highway, the right mid controls can transform your ride — making every mile more enjoyable.

Need help finding the best mid controls for your Harley? Hawg Halters, Inc. offers precision-engineered parts built for performance and comfort. Explore our line of Harley Davidson mid controls today and take your riding experience to the next level.

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